[Guozun Law Firm] Discussing the Legality of Copying Lawyers’ Business Cards: Revealing the Required Information and Norms Contained in Lawyers’ Business Cards

During the period when a lawyer is studying for a doctorate, may he indicate “Doctor So-and-so” on his business card?

A lawyer who is studying for a doctorate should avoid indicating “Doctor So-and-so” on his business card. According to relevant laws, regulations, and academic norms, only after completing the thesis defense and obtaining the doctoral degree does an individual have the qualification to use the title “Doctor.” During the period of studying for a doctoral degree, the lawyer may indicate on the business card “Lawyer So-and-so, doctoral student,” thereby showing his academic pursuit and professional background.

The use of the word “Doctor” must be handled cautiously in order to avoid causing public misunderstanding or involving suspected false publicity. A doctoral degree is an important achievement of an individual in the academic field and represents the highest level of degree; therefore, before the degree is formally obtained, it is not appropriate to use this title on a business card.

May non-lawyers print the name of a law firm on their business cards?

Non-lawyers may not print the name of a law firm on their business cards. According to Article 22 of the Provisions of the Department of Justice on Regulating Lawyers’ Practice, such conduct may mislead the public and should be strictly prohibited. The design of law firm business cards is limited to personal use by lawyers, and should include necessary information such as the name of the law firm, the lawyer’s name, title, and contact information.

Use of the name of a law firm on a business card by a non-lawyer may violate relevant laws and regulations and trigger unnecessary legal liability. It is recommended that individuals clearly identify their status in business card design and comply with the rules, so as to avoid causing misunderstanding.

What key points should be noted when looking for a lawyer?

1. When choosing a lawyer, price should not be taken as the only standard. Although price is one of the factors to consider, it is more important to focus on the lawyer’s professional quality, experience, and service quality. Choosing a lawyer who can solve actual problems and enjoys a good reputation, even if the fee is somewhat higher, is a wise choice.

2. Before paying lawyer fees, be sure to carefully review the fee details to ensure that all fees are reasonable and transparent, and avoid additional expenditures caused by information asymmetry.

3. The information provided to the lawyer must be true and reliable. Any false statement should be avoided, so as not to affect case handling and legal consequences.

4. Choose a formal law firm, and verify the lawyer’s practice certificate to confirm his qualifications and practice status. Sign a formal agency contract to clarify the rights and obligations of both parties and ensure the reasonableness of the fees.

5. When looking for a lawyer, one should clarify one’s own legal needs and purposes. Different lawyers are good at different fields. Clarifying the needs helps to quickly find a suitable lawyer and improve the efficiency of problem-solving.

6. It is recommended to learn about the lawyer’s background and reputation through formal channels, avoid lightly believing unverified publicity, and ensure that professional legal services are obtained.

7. During communication, pay attention to the lawyer’s response speed and professional attitude, as these can often reflect the degree of importance he attaches to client service.

8. Consider the lawyer’s geographical location, as this facilitates face-to-face meetings and subsequent communication. Sometimes convenience in terms of region is also beneficial to case handling.